By definition, a prophet is one who “speaks forth” the Word of God. For that reason, it necessitates a tenacity for scripture and the passion to seek God’s heart through what He has already spoken. A prophet is not a prophet because they can “see” in the spiritual realm whether, through dreams or visions, nor because they have supernatural encounters or third-heaven experiences.
A prophet is a prophet because they have stood in God’s council and He has placed His Word within their mouth.
“(4) Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying: (5) “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” (6) Then said I: “Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I cannot speak, for I [am] a youth.” (7) But the LORD said to me: “Do not say, ‘I [am] a youth,’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you, And whatever I command you, you shall speak. ( Do not be afraid of their faces, For I [am] with you to deliver you,” says the LORD. (9) Then the LORD put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the LORD said to me: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. (10) See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms, To root out and to pull down, To destroy and to throw down, To build and to plant.”” – Jer 1:4-10 NKJV
